Sworn In And Ready To Start

A busy day for Woodstock City Council as they had their swearing in ceremony at city hall.

WOODSTOCK - Woodstock City Council had their official swearing in ceremony last night for their new council.

Ron Fraser was one of the new council members who was sworn in as he makes his return to City council. He was previously a councillor from 2010 to 2014 and had plans to return however, was diagnosed with cancer. But fortunately he is now cancer free and wants to help his beloved community out the best he can. Ron Fraser has more to say on his return.

"So I'm back and healthy and I love this community. This community has been so good to me in my life and my career. And I feel as though I have something to give back and I want to keep giving so here I am."

Fraser also says he wants to tackle the budget for 2019.

"This city has grown so much but, there will be things that need to be increased. Keeping the budget in a reasonable position. Not throwing too much on the tax payers if anything."

Fraser was also a member of the Woodstock Police Service for 34 years and the last 9.5 years of his time there as chief.

The big moment last night happened with the inaugural address from Woodstock Mayor Trevor Birtch. He brought up some major issues facing the City, including Waste Management and finishing what they started during his first term.

Birtch talked about the record setting residential growth in Woodstock and the boundary adjustment with Norwich which will be used for industrial and commercial use.

The Mayor also touched on the need for more housing and the need for our transit system to be available to most people when they need it.

He concluded his message with this.

"I am looking forward to working with a Council that is united, one that shares a common vision and ultimate goal to provide residents of Woodstock with the best services available. We will be updating our strategic plan, updating our recreation needs, and setting new priorities for our growing community. This dedication to the future is also a selling point for business, industry and people who not called Woodstock home... yet. Greater things are yet to come, and greater things are still to be done in this city. Again thank you and let's get to work. God bless us all."